My minivan camper REVEALED! Full in-depth conversion van tour
I DIY'ed the whole thing. If I did it, you can do it.
If you'd like to buy me a coffee, THANKS! Hit this link: ko-fi.com/lesliekalk
Here's some of the stuff I used to make the van a camper. As an Amazon Associate I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no cost to you:
Square perforated tubing for roof crossbars:
flex-craft.com/
Roof basket:
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Tarp poles:
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Sewing machine:
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Roof rails:
Get the OEM - Original Equipment Manufactured - roof rails:
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Roof cross bars:
flex-craft.com/
Motion activated light:
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Collapsible crate:
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Telescoping table leg:
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Table Support Channel and Slide:
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Rechargeable fan:
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Igloo cooler:
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3-drawer unit in pantry:
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Collapsible bucket:
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Disposable "toilet" bags:
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Mattress:
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Mattress fabric (Looks like the design I ordered was discontinued. But I LOVE this one):
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Zippers for mattress covers:
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Lantern that's crushable, USB chargeable and SOLAR chargeable:
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Toiletry travel bag (Hubby loves this!):
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Quick Dry towel (Another of Hubby's faves):
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Пікірлер: 612
*Watch Next* > How I use the toilet kzread.info/dash/bejne/aGWKlcqNkdaplNo.html and How I Built my Minivan Camper kzread.info/dash/bejne/ppZn28Vyo9iyYpM.html
@shandelebroyles1099
3 жыл бұрын
The arch for the front curtain doesn't block the light at the top. You need another board on top of that straight board and *ARCH* it. So it does work. You did a great job on the sides though.
@fadwanajamy1907
2 жыл бұрын
Question, what is tge height of the legs fir your bed? You can sit up! Yet it appears you still have storage underneath.
One of the best mini van build outs I have ever seen. So practical. Well done!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Why thanks, Fiona! You're a gem 😀 I appreciate you being here.
LOL... the rubbing! She rubs everything! She loves this van. 😂Great build, though. Great job on the bed.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
LOL! I never even noticed that but... yeah, you're right... I love the van😉 Thanks for watching.
@spiritseeker1932
3 жыл бұрын
Rub it. Rub it good.... lol. Just teasin... Good job! 👍🏼Someday I still want to go meet up with bob well on KZread and go nomadin! 😃👏🏼✌🏼
@twinmom5138
3 жыл бұрын
The rubbing was driving me crazy too!
@cherie6756
3 жыл бұрын
Maybe she wants to be a hand model..
@karenclausen6724
3 жыл бұрын
I'd rub it too if it was that nice. The wood work is a pretty color, toasty butter.
Love how you've utilized the van's handles, cubbies and storage wells. And the lightweight materials and COOL bed design! Taking notes. Thanks!
The couch bed is fantastic. I like what you did with your beautiful build 💫👏🏾
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Aw, thanks Afro Mom! I appreciate you watching.
I definitely want to run into you, Leslie, on the road! You are so smart, confident and funny. Awesome build!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Kari, Thanks for the love! Keep an eye out for me. We've covered like 28 states since September.
@Rob_Gene07
3 жыл бұрын
Honestly! I would definitely give her some tomatoes 🍅😋😊
@mjm3852
3 жыл бұрын
@@TheVanThatGotAway All I can say is, wow!
Great van build! I am happy to have found you, as I also was inspired by Eric and some others for my minivan bed and build! Good thorough content and I like your enthusiasm!
Awesome build! Everything you need and nothing more! Nice job. 🐾👍🏼😎
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks, Annie. And thanks for checking out the video.
Okay , I love your sofa bed as it's just ingenious ..... You keep your van organized which is what is a must for me... Too many small truck or van conversions take up too much space with a gigantic stationary bed and I have to have that lounge area that does not require laying out on a bed all the time.... Love your ideas , happy and safe travels
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Kristie, Thanks for the kind words! Yep, I can't stand clutter - it stresses me out. And I really wanted the space to perform a number of different functions. Thanks for watching.
Love the setup especially the couch bed
@GiantMeteor2024
2 жыл бұрын
Peek a boo fellow Weirdo! 🇺🇸 🇨🇦
I did learn some things. I have been looking for table ideas. Yours is the best so far. Putting the telescopic leg on there is the ticket ! So simple. My kitchen would be in the back, so another rail added to my design would enable me to transfer the table to the outside !! You are geniuses 👏🕊✌👵🏽❤🇺🇸
Fantastic van build, we truly appreciate your dedicated help and valuable time! 😁
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Awesome, I'm glad to be of help if I can.
Awesome build. I especially like the bed/couch.
Best Van Conversion I've seen and I will be stealing some ideas for sure. Looking for a minivan right now and I'm sure I'll find the perfect one soon.
It's a sweet build. Practical and sturdy. Loved the way the curtain board was mounted on the handholds by the sliding doors. Brilliant idea! The bed/couch is a great idea in a small space too. Seeing those more and more in minivans.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hey Sammi, Thanks! "Practical" is my middle name 😉😆 I appreciate you watching. Are you doing a camper build?
I have a 2007 Odyssey and love the beast! I'm in the process of modding it for camping and it's great. I found a roof top basket like yours at discountramps. Excellent selection for ramps, racks, etc. I'm also a kayaker and using a 12' inflatable paddle board and 12' inflatable kayak which will be stored on top. They are very compact! Your build is just great and thanks for the vid!!
We've been looking at van and cargo trailer buildouts for quite awhile, and yours is definitely the most unique and impressive -- the window cover storage, the arch right behind the front seats, the table -- You have just about everything covered. Nice build!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Kirsten, It's a testament to what obsession and the need for storage can achieve. Thanks for watching!
I love this build. I would pay you to do mine. 🤩 😜 I'm trying to figure out how to make mine into a 2 person camper van. I would go a little narrower on the bed to make a little more room for food only because we can't have gluten and dairy. So bringing foods we can eat is a must. But I pack a lot of dry alternatives too. Saving your video. I'm going to see if my father in law will help with the build. He does a lot of carpentry.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Whoa!! You have a carpenter in the family!!?! You lucky duck😃 Are you gonna be out boondocking mostly? Otherwise I've found you can stock a modest amount of food and shop as you go. You're never too far from your next Whole Foods, ya know?
You are a rockstar, I have the same van, and the first thing I regretted was the fact it didn’t have roof rails, and I thought I wouldn’t be able to add them since there wasn’t even a track to attach them too. Then when you opened the back and I saw Eric’s bed design I really perked up because he is one of my favorite mega Minds when it comes to the van build - - I hope he sees this, and realize how much he inspires people. I LOVE the arch, divider, black out curtain hanger design, it looks so perfect for your van, I’m definitely going to attempt that! Thanks so much for thinking that we might want to see your build!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Yep, once you pry up the metal strips you'll see the little bolts on the roof, ready to welcome your new rails!! Thanks for watching and if you find yourself banging your head against a walk with any project, let me know if I can help.
I enjoyed your video and learned a few things. Love your ability to just turn it back into a minivan, nothing drilled or modified from the original condition of the van. Very interested in how you secured the arch using I think the two grab handles(?). Also loved your convertible couch design, and that table, omg.... such a dream to have in a minivan (I have the same van) and be able to actually sit up and be comfy at it. Thanks for posting!
best video for my needs- I have to keep chairs in the back for my grand kids and this way is perfect!
You are adorable. The always in progress advice is primo. Wine in a box is a brilliant idea!!!. Who needs a refrigerator or milk, wine with your cereal. You're brilliant!!
I like it! Just goes to show ya, you don’t need fancy. It just needs to work. Also if need be, she could buy some dry ice at the grocery and that would keep stuff in the cooler longer if needed. But that bed/ couch is genius! And it just slipped right into a bed and back so easy! Gotta watch for a video on that awning. Neat lady. I wish her health, happiness and safety on her travels. Enjoyed the video! Thanks! ❤️💜💚
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Paige, Thanks for the good wishes! I'm glad you enjoyed the tour.
Great build: simplicity and practicality makes for a beautiful, uncluttered camper van! I recognized your bed from Eric Enjoys Earth! My van build out begins around May 1st. I'll keep your approach and philosophy in mind. Thank you for sharing your creation.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hi YAH, I'm so pumped for you!! Let me know how the build is going. Thanks for taking the time to check in😃
This is a cool setup. The wood work is perfect for a quick conversion back to van mode if needed.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
LOL, I keep thinking that the whole thing will eventually go back to being a regular van. But after you've had an AdventureVan, why would you go back?🤣😃 Still, it was a good part of the challenge of the build. Thanks for watching.
Love your couch that turns into a bed.
@TheVanThatGotAway
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks, Sassy, I love your handle! 😃
I have watched so many camper conversion videos and yours is one of the best I have seen. Amazing job.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
So, I'm not the only one who's watched every camper conversion video out there???! LOL! Thanks for the kind words, Momma Mae, and thanks for watching.
@MommaMaeMae
3 жыл бұрын
@@TheVanThatGotAway Lol. I have watched my fair share of them for sure lol
Awesome simple design. Thank you!
Very impressive. Your hard work has paid off.
Great to see the lack of a fridge downplayed. I got rid of mine. Best thing I ever did. The right size cooler, managed properly, is a much better tool to have.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Yessss, Mitch!! We told ourselves, why not start simple? If we really, really need more we can upgrade. But it's freeing to discover a simpler lifestyle, right?
@mitchwinder1204
3 жыл бұрын
@@TheVanThatGotAway Indeed!
Wow, your van build is PERFECT! I've been watching a bajillion videos for years, though have yet to acquire a van (but I'm definitely prepared when I do)! The bed, especially, is genius. But really, everything fits and is so efficient, wow. I'm more impressed by this than any of the others I've seen, and am really looking forward to your awning and other build vids. Thank you for sharing your build with us!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Julie, Thanks for the nice words! I also started designing my van before I even had a van. Some call it obsessing, but I call it good planning 😉
@supac1
Жыл бұрын
This was Eric's design. Copied by many including this one
@CataLyst7Continued
Жыл бұрын
@@supac1 She gives him credit at 16:40 if you watched the whole video. Don't be so sour.
Love it - mallet for stuff that is supposed to move but doesn't, and duct tape for stuff that moves when it shouldn't.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Spoken like someone who's fixed a thing or two! And the duct tape came in handy yesterday when I snapped my glasses in half😬
What a beautiful van build! Thank you for sharing.
A box of wine and ur on ur way 👍 great build. Safe travels.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Good to see you and I think alike, Laura!
This is EXACTLY what I want for my sienna. I just can’t figure out how to align the cabinetry and hook bar. 😬. You do AWESOME! Questions... 1)how did you level your floor and what’s on it? 2) where’s your clean cloths? 3) do you have anything for midnight bathroom needs? Very very cool
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Aw, thanks Jo! 1. For the floors, I just left them all wonky instead of trying to build out a level floor. We don't use that much of it anyway. I just put some of that thick clear plastic carpet protector down where we DO walk so we don't destroy the carpeting. 2. Clean clothes are in the deep storage well where the 3rd row seats used to fold into. And believe me, there's not many clothes! 3. For "emergencies" I have a clever toilet set up. I did a video for you just on that very subject, have a look! Thanks for asking.
The bed looks almost like a futon. Definitely nice build. Thanks for the cooler idea with the cups. I travel in my car & don't have alot of room but a small cooler would fit. I didn't even think about ice in plastic cups. And I'm only interested in keeping drinks cold or any leftover deli food. I buy my perishables every day & no more than 1 serving if I can avoid it. I've heard there's alot of extra room when stow n go's are out.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Sass, Yep sometimes you don't realize how simple it can be, right? Happy travels to you! And thanks for watching.
100% interested in the shelf and bed build videos. Pretty sure your will work for my SUV. Just love how your design mind works!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hey Hope! Forgive me if I already know this, but what kind of SUV are you working with? And if you need these, here's the link to the shelf video: kzread.info/dash/bejne/mJ97tLumqbOah6w.html and the bed build: kzread.info/dash/bejne/e2Wq2q9xlr2cc84.html Thanks for checking in!
@Swimdeep
3 жыл бұрын
@@TheVanThatGotAway You’re a nice girl-thanks for the linky love. I did check them out and am going to adapt as much as I can to my build. I have a 20 year old Chevy Blazer 4WD that I bought new. I’m making good progress-only bugaboo is the inside spare tire. The kit to move it outside is no longer available. I’m scouring all possibilities but so far have only found one used mount for $500. I can’t do it-too much $$ I thought I left a comment with my email so I could give you some helpful info but then couldn’t find it. Anyway, email me @ HopeSpringsATurtleATgmailDOTcom. I have tips for you that might be gamechangers. Be well and thanks for your response.🌿
Ack! Gonna steal the BRILLIANT plumbing straps idea. I only have one slider door so I'll need to figure out the other side.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Leese, Check out Bruce Parks' channel. He inspired my build and has a different version of the arch which might help your build.
Amazing build! Great design!
Very enjoyable to watch. Love to see how you made built-ins!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Margaret, You're in for a treat. That will be my next video! Thanks for asking.
Awesome build! You did a great job!!!
You have mad skills! Beautiful job.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
LOL, Katie! Thanks for the kind words 🙂
Hi Leslie. Your work and design here is pure genius. I have a 2013 Elite that I have put off converting for 2 years now...this is very inspirational!! Good job with video, too.
Love the bed/sofa setup. Good job!🙂
I've seen a lot of builds, but this one is the best. That bed/couch is the best idea. Good job.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Sheri, I had a LOT of help from KZread🙂
I love the ideas! It's perfect! You did an excellent job of the van build. I'm going to use some of your ideas when I finally retire and get going!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hey April, thanks! When's retirement scheduled?
Those are so many unique spaces for storage!!👍🏽👍🏽
Nicely done, and not overdone. Very practical and efficient. And it looks like you can use your table out the back. I'm saving this video for when I do my own build! Thank you.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Li, Yes for us it HAD to be neat and practical. I can't stand a mess - LOL!! Thanks for watching and commenting. Keep me in the loop with your build, okay?
Love your build and the videos! You have been a great inspiration to us! Thank you!
Some excellent design ideas there, I WILL be making use of them. Thanks
Great ideas. Love the 'overhead' storage.
Brilliant. Keeping it simple and organized 👍
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
LOL! I hate clutter🤨🙂
Great job! Love the simple , practical build!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks, Matt. For us, it HAD to be simple, elegant, neat and practical. Thanks for watching!
Just watched your video on your van built. Wow! Great ideas and you're very creative. I have a 2005 Honda Odessey Touring Edition and am trying to get some ideas on my built, and you have given me some, so thank you. Will keep in touch with you and your videos and any more ideas you can share will be very appreciated.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Luann, Thanks for the love! I'm very happy to be of help if I can. Let me know if there's anything in particular you have questions about. Keep those creative streams flowing and have fun with your build.
That bed/bench is brilliant!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks, Laura! We totally love it.
@pambrunner5716
3 жыл бұрын
No place for toilet. I used a crock pot with glass lid so I didn't have to leave the car to pee in the middle of the night Three inches of water ,three tbl of dawn, and a 1/2 cup of clorox. If it got used. Go to a port A poddy and dump. More water ,dawn ,and clorox it sanitize s itself. And spray!
@zsolovyev
3 жыл бұрын
Agree, very nice design. I started to think to make something similar.
@zsolovyev
3 жыл бұрын
@BSquared Thank you. I have seen multiple mini-camper bed designs. Yours is one of the best! : )
Love this build, clean, organized. Wow. Especially love the bed.
One of the best van builds I've seen to date.
@TheVanThatGotAway
2 жыл бұрын
Henry, you're a peach! Thanks so much. You have great taste😃🤣
Nice and stylish van build
Love your practicality and resourcefulness. Nice job!!!
@TheVanThatGotAway
Жыл бұрын
Aw, thanks! 😊 Wait til you see the updated full tour...
Best built i have seen so far , and yes , the most important feature in van camping is the bed , you nailed it!
Great conversion! Thanks for sharing.
some very smart innovations. well done.
Nice Build!!
Love this build. Great ideas. Thanks so much.
Thank you for sharing such a nice setup.
I love the arche.
That bed is awesome!
I knew that interior the second I started watching your screen video! Y’all are gonna have a blast on the road!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Yep, a good design gets circulated quickly! Thanks for being here and taking the time to chat.
Great job!!
Awesome...you did a great job...Thank you for the tour...👍
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Good to have you along on the tour, Pamela!
Love your wood built in bed/bench base and side storage shelves.
@TheVanThatGotAway
Жыл бұрын
Aw thanks, Peggy! Àre you building a van bed, too?
Great video. Nice job on the build in.
@TheVanThatGotAway
2 жыл бұрын
Glad you liked it, Cherrie! Thanks for the love.
Never seen such an amazing walking stick😊
@TheVanThatGotAway
Жыл бұрын
LOL, thanks! 😄
Great simple efficient comfortable build.
Nice build. Thanks for sharing!
Very creative. Good job. 👍
super cool! Nice job!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Aw, thanks Dennis! I really appreciate you watching and taking the time to check in.
I have watched this video more than once and I must say you are a mazing- you did a great job I wish I had the carpentry skills that you have!
Incredible build, fantastic ingenuity, and great personality!🤗 Question about the bed/sofa- it looks like the sofa setup could also be enjoyed from the other side, i.e. with your feet swinging out the back hatch opening while you enjoy a sunset... but you did not mention this so I want to confirm that the sofa can also bear weight that way. Thanks so much for sharing!!! 💐💐💐
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Sistah! Yep, you can do that very thing, but there's not much headroom. Not ideal, but everything's a trade off. Thanks for asking 😃
Love her energy and positive vibe. !!!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Aw, thanks for the love!
Wow, It is a very nice van you made
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Mary, Thanks for the love! And hugs right back to you from somewhere on the road in the Southwest U.S.😃
@maryjohnson473
3 жыл бұрын
@@TheVanThatGotAway Thank you
@maryjohnson473
3 жыл бұрын
@@TheVanThatGotAway
great build!
Love the couch/bed combo!!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks, Valerie. It's worked out super well! Thanks for being here.
This my kind of build! sensible, great practical ideas. Clever woman! 👌
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Aw, thanks Cherise. And thanks for watching!
Fabulous job 👍👍👍👍
Nicely done!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Aw, thanks Bonnie!
Great job!! It looks fabulous!! Thank you for sharing
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Bonnie, It's my pleasure! I'm happy to give back after getting so much help here.
You are very neat and organized , that is a must in smaller places . Wonderful ideas . Thank You
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Patricia, I do hate a mess. And I can't stand the idea of just throwing down a cot and lashing down some plastic shelves with a bungee cord. Nothing wrong with that approach, but not for me. Thanks for watching!
Love it!! So many great aspects to this build. Thank you for the inspiration
Love this buildout!
@TheVanThatGotAway
2 жыл бұрын
Aw, thanks Sheila!
Pretty neat van I love the work you’ve done to it Nice job😊
@TheVanThatGotAway
11 ай бұрын
Aw thanks, Francisco!
Love your bed/bench❣️
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks! And thanks for checking it out.
Awesome build!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Why, thanks friend!
Love the set up
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Aw, thanks! It's been a lot of fun.
Love your set up ! Thank you for the great ideas.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Oh thanks! I hope they're useful to someone. Thanks for watching 😃
Love the table set up ❤
@TheVanThatGotAway
Жыл бұрын
Aw, thanks Peter! Props to Eric Enjoys Earth for that.
Fab van tour. Great ideas 💡
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks! See ya on the road...
So many good and practical ideas. Thanks.
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Oh thanks, John! I hope some of it's helpful. I appreciate you watching 😀
Such a smart build! I have the exact, same van. Love it!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Jason! Our van twin!! Thanks for watching. Are you building yours out?
Great job, happy travels!
@TheVanThatGotAway
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the good wishes, Kelly.